How it works
Training into Plumbing, Gasfitting and Drainlaying
With our support, you could become a highly skilled and sought-after tradesperson, working in an industry with a secure future.
Apprenticeships are much more than a training course. Every qualified plumber, gasfitter or drainlayer has spent time studying (off-job) and learning (on-job) alongside professional tradespeople on real jobsites.
Our skilled trades offer an excellent variety of work
Apprentices work on small jobs, huge new projects, maintenance, residential or commercial sites. The range of things plumbers do is surprising and amazing!
New technologies mean plumbing isn't only about getting your hands dirty. And you need to be smart to be a great tradesperson.
This hands-on work is rewarding with lots of problem-solving and technical challenges. It is also future proof. People will always need plumbers and a trade qualification can lead to an amazing career on or off the tools. Many of our apprentices go on to start their own businesses or become partners in a company.
Check out this Career Description to find out more about career prospects, what you could earn, and other information.
5 Great Reasons to Become a Masterlink Apprentice
Duration
The length of an apprenticeship depends on the combination of the trades being learned and the apprentice's attitude. Work hard and you could qualify more quickly!
All courses require on-job, in class, and online learning:
- Plumbing, Gasfitting & Drainlaying can take up to 5 years
- Plumbing & Drainlaying takes around 4 years
- Drainlaying takes 2 years.
The more trade skills you have under your belt, the more sought-after you will be!
Certificate
These are the Level 4 qualifications gained through a Masterlink apprenticeship:
- New Zealand Certificate in Plumbing, Drainlaying & Gasfitting
- New Zealand Certificate in Plumbing & Drainlaying
- New Zealand Certificate in Drainlaying
Locations
From the far North to the far South, Masterlink host companies and their apprentices are based all over New Zealand.
Contact us to find out who is looking to take on an apprentice in your area.
Get started on your new career with Masterlink
1. Start your apprenticeship journey by applying to Masterlink
2. We connect you with companies for your on-job training
3. Training on-job with your host + off-job with providers
4. Quarterly appraisals with your mentor
5. Gain your New Zealand Certificate(s)
6. Get your licence!
Requirements
Qualifications and skills
What are the entry requirements?
- You are a New Zealand Citizen, New Zealand Permanent Resident or New Zealand Resident
- You have a valid/current restricted driver licence as a minimum
- You have proof of your commitment. This includes practical experience working on construction sites, outdoors or in the wider plumbing industry. If you are applying straight from school, Gateway or other Vocational Pathways Programme experience and/or relevant holiday jobs are important
- You are able to demonstrate a good level of numeracy and literacy skills
- If you’re under 20, some plumbing firms might also want to see your NCEA Level 1, 2 or 3 results (especially in English, Maths, Science, or Technology).
Masterlink apprentice candidates are screened for criminal convictions and driving offences. These are assessed on a case-by-base basis. Applicants must also pass a medical check that includes alcohol and drug testing.
Attributes
You need to be:
- keen to learn new things and open to new experiences
- motivated to succeed and committed to completing the apprenticeship
- a hands-on, hard worker who loves problem-solving and thrives on variety
- a great communicator with a good level of literacy and numeracy
- fit to carry out physical work, sometimes in challenging environments
- computer literate to complete online training.
Fees and Scholarships
Find out the latest information below
Apprenticeship
Costs
Scholarships
+ Awards